Drop-off charges at Edinburgh Airport are about to increase, in a move the airport says will tackle congestion on the surrounding roads.

The charge for a five-minute drop-off is rising to £2 from £1. The change takes place from Thursday, November 8.

Stays between five and ten minutes will cost £4, rising to £10 up to 15 minutes.

Edinburgh city council and the airport are working on a £10m project to construct a new access road to ease congestion on Eastfield Road.

Research from the airport shows Eastfield Road is already operating at capacity with forecasters estimating that by the summer peak in 2019, the road will be at 121% capacity.

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Revenue raised from the new drop-off charges would contribute to the project, airport chiefs said.

Edinburgh Airport Chief Executive, Gordon Dewar, said: "We're committed to giving passengers the very best travel experience and this includes their access to and from the airport.

"Our proposals for a new access road which we anticipate funding the majority of will go a long way towards easing the current congestion problems our passengers face, and the consequent environmental impact.

"I appreciate the increase will not be welcome news for all but I’m sure most will realise the need for action to combat the congestion we currently experience not only in the summer but throughout the year.

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"We are committed to working with the Council and other partners to ensure that existing and new infrastructure is fit for purpose and will continue to make informed decisions to alleviate congestion now and in the coming months leading up to the peak summer period."